Request for Proposals to Operate Horseshoe Bend and Trail Creek Campgrounds within Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

Quick Summary

The National Park Service (NPS) is issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) to select a vendor to operate the Horseshoe Bend and Trail Creek Campgrounds within the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area in Lovell, WY. This opportunity is for a Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) covering the 2026-2027 camping seasons. Proposals are due February 28, 2026.

Scope of Work

The selected operator will be responsible for comprehensive campground management, including:

• Managing a reservation system (e.g., recreation.gov) for advance and first-come, first-served bookings.
• Collecting camping fees using an "iron ranger" system and honoring America the Beautiful passes.
• Recruiting and managing campground hosts.
• Performing routine cleaning and light maintenance of all campground facilities (restrooms, fire pits, picnic tables, bear boxes).
• Daily cleaning and stocking of restrooms, emptying waste receptacles, and providing cleaning supplies.
• Handling incidental cleaning and trash pickup on weekends and holidays.
• Informing Park maintenance of needs within 24 hours.
• Paying all utilities (electricity, water, trash collection) for the Horseshoe Bend campground.
• Selling locally sourced, pest-free firewood with Superintendent approval, ceasing sales during burn bans.

Contract Details

• Contract Type: Commercial Use Authorization (CUA)
• Period of Performance: Two years, covering the 2026 and 2027 camping seasons (generally Memorial Day through Labor Day, with potential for extension).
• Estimated Value: Not specified, but historical gross receipts for these campgrounds ranged from $52,682 to $74,997 in recent years.
• Place of Performance: Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, Lovell, WY.

Submission & Evaluation

• Submission Deadline: February 28, 2026, by 23:00:00Z.
• Proposal Submission: Complete CUA Application and Proposal (in PDF format) must be emailed to Todd Johnson at todd_johnson@nps.gov.
• Application Fee: A $350 fee (check or money order payable to "Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area") is required.
• Basis for Award: Proposals will be evaluated based on the ability to offer the best visitor experience, the operator's previous experience, fairness of proposed rates, viability of the business plan, and the ability to meet minimum service dates.

Eligibility & Set-Aside

• Set-Aside: No specific set-aside designation. This is an open competition.
• Eligibility Requirements: Bidders must comply with all applicable laws and regulations. Required submission documents include corporate information, previous experience, financial history, customer references, and proof of $1,000,000 in liability insurance. A comprehensive business plan covering staffing, operating schedule, rate structure, projected demand, revenue, and maintenance approach is also required.

Additional Notes

• There is no cell service or wireless internet available at either campground.
• The vendor is responsible for developing or utilizing an existing reservation system.
• Rates are determined by market forces but are subject to NPS review for reasonableness.
• Contact Todd Johnson (Todd_Johnson@nps.gov, 307-763-6614) for the RFP or any additional information.